Information processing apparatus and non-transitory computer readable medium

ABSTRACT

An information processing apparatus includes a notification unit that gives a notification to a user in a case where a device that covers user&#39;s vision is used in a closed space that accommodates at least one user and a managed time based on a period for which the closed space is available is reached.

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

This application is based on and claims priority under 35 USC 119 fromJapanese Patent Application No. 2017-237546 filed Dec. 12, 2017.

BACKGROUND Technical Field

The present invention relates to an information processing apparatus anda non-transitory computer readable medium.

SUMMARY

According to an aspect of the invention, there is provided aninformation processing apparatus including a notification unit thatgives a notification to a user in a case where a device that coversuser's vision is used in a closed space that accommodates at least oneuser and a managed time based on a period for which the closed space isavailable is reached.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

An exemplary embodiment of the present invention will be described indetail based on the following figures, wherein:

FIG. 1 is a conceptual module configuration diagram illustrating anexample of a configuration according to the present exemplaryembodiment;

FIG. 2 is an explanatory view illustrating an example of a virtualreality display device including the present exemplary embodiment;

FIG. 3 is an explanatory view illustrating an example of a booth inwhich the present exemplary embodiment can be used;

FIG. 4 is an explanatory view illustrating an example of a systemconfiguration using the present exemplary embodiment;

FIG. 5 is a conceptual module configuration diagram illustrating anexample of a configuration of an image presenting module;

FIG. 6 is a flowchart illustrating an example of processing according tothe present exemplary embodiment;

FIG. 7 is an explanatory view illustrating an example of a datastructure of a booth schedule table;

FIG. 8 is an explanatory view illustrating an example of a datastructure of a booth schedule table;

FIGS. 9A and 9B each illustrate a presentation example according to thepresent exemplary embodiment;

FIGS. 10A and 10B each illustrate a presentation example according tothe present exemplary embodiment;

FIG. 11 is a flowchart illustrating an example of processing accordingto the present exemplary embodiment;

FIG. 12 is an explanatory view illustrating an example of processingaccording to the present exemplary embodiment;

FIG. 13 is a flowchart illustrating an example of processing accordingto the present exemplary embodiment;

FIG. 14 is an explanatory view illustrating an example in which thepresent exemplary embodiment is not used;

FIG. 15 is an explanatory view illustrating an example of processingaccording to the present exemplary embodiment;

FIG. 16 is an explanatory view illustrating an example of processingaccording to the present exemplary embodiment;

FIGS. 17A1, 17A2, 17B, 17C, 17D, 17E, 17F1, and 17F2 each illustrate apresentation example according to the present exemplary embodiment; and

FIG. 18 is a block diagram illustrating an example of a hardwareconfiguration of a computer that realizes the present exemplaryembodiment.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

An exemplary embodiment of the present invention is described below withreference to the drawings.

FIG. 1 is a conceptual module configuration diagram illustrating anexample of a configuration according to the present exemplaryembodiment.

The “module” generally refers to logically independent software (acomputer program) or a component such as hardware. Accordingly, a moduleaccording to the present exemplary embodiment refers to not only amodule as a computer program, but also a module as a hardwareconfiguration. Therefore, the present exemplary embodiment also servesas descriptions of a computer program for causing a computer to functionas a module (a program for causing a computer to execute a procedure, aprogram for causing a computer to function as a unit, or a program forcausing a computer to realize a function), a system, and a method. Forconvenience of description, “store”, “stored”, and equivalent terms areused, but these terms mean that a computer program is stored in astorage device or control is performed so that a computer program isstored in a storage device in a case where the exemplary embodiment is acomputer program. Although a module may correspond to a function on aone-to-one basis, a single module may be constituted by a singleprogram, plural modules may be constituted by a single program, or asingle module may be constituted by plural programs. Furthermore, pluralmodules may be executed by a single computer or a single module may beexecuted by plural computers in a distributed or parallel environment. Asingle module may include another module. Hereinafter, “connection”refers to not only physical connection, but also logical connection(e.g., data exchange, an instruction, a reference relationship betweendata, login). The term “predetermined” refers to being determined beforesubject processing and encompasses not only being determined beforestart of processing according to the present exemplary embodiment, butalso being determined before subject processing even after start of theprocessing according to the present exemplary embodiment in accordancewith a situation or a state at the time or in accordance with asituation or a state so far. In a case where there are plural“predetermined values”, the predetermined values may be different valuesor two or more of the predetermined values (including all of thepredetermined values) may be identical to each other. The expression “ina case where A, B is performed” means that “whether A or not isdetermined, and in a case where it is determined that A, B is performed”except for a case where it is unnecessary to determine whether A or not.An expression listing plural things such as “A, B, C” is listing ofexamples unless otherwise specified and encompasses a case where onlyone of them (e.g., only A) is selected.

A system or an apparatus may be constituted not only by pluralcomputers, hardware configurations, apparatuses, or the like that areconnected through means of communication such as a network (includingone-to-one communication connection), but also by a single computer,hardware configuration, apparatus, or the like. The terms “system” and“apparatus” are uses synonymously. Needless to say, the term “system”does not encompass a social “mechanism” (social system) that is anartificial arrangement.

For each of processes performed by modules or for each of processesperformed by a module in a case where plural processes are performedwithin the module, target information is read from a storage device, anda result of the process is written into the storage device after theprocess. Description of reading of the information from the storagedevice before the process and writing into the storage device after theprocess is sometimes omitted. Examples of the storage device may includea hard disk, a random access memory (RAM), an external storage medium, astorage device connected through a communication line, and a register ina central processing unit (CPU).

An information processing apparatus 100 according to the presentexemplary embodiment is an apparatus that is capable of outputting animage in a case where a device that covers user's vision and changes apresented image in accordance with a direction of an action of the userreceives an output instruction. As illustrated in FIG. 1, theinformation processing apparatus 100 includes a motion detection module105, an image storage module 110, an image presenting module 115, aschedule receiving module 120, a schedule management module 125, asensor result receiving module 135, and a control module 140.

The “device that covers user's vision and changes a presented image inaccordance with a direction of an action of the user” is, for example, ahead-mounted display. The head-mounted display is a display that isattached to a head like goggles, a helmet, or glasses and is also called“smartglasses”. The expression “covers user's vision” encompasses notonly a case where user's vision is completely blocked so that the usercan see only an image presented by the image presenting module 115, butalso a case where the user mostly sees an image presented by the imagepresenting module 115 but can see an outside world, for example, fromcorners of the eyes in a case of a display attached to a head. That is,this device need just be arranged such that the user is focused on animage presented by the image presenting module 115. In other words, itis only necessary that the user cannot receive information about aphysical outside world.

A technique for artificially creating an environment that offers a senseof reality by working on human' sense organs is called “VR” (virtualreality). A system in which video (image) generated in real time by acomputer is displayed on a head-mounted display realizes VR. Forexample, a remote conference may be realized by VR.

The expression “in accordance with a direction of an action of the user”means that a motion of a user's body such as a head or a user's gaze isdetected, and a result of the detection is reflected on displaycontents.

The information processing apparatus 100 is used in a closed space thataccommodates at least one user. The “closed space (hereinafter alsoreferred to as a booth)” refers to a space which a person other than auser who is scheduled to use the space cannot easily enter and is aspace that is not opened and is closed or a space that is isolated. Forexample, the closed space may be a space isolated from an outside worldby being surrounded by partitions such as walls around a user or may bea box-shaped space like a phone booth. Note, however, that a ceiling maybe opened. Furthermore, the space may be provided with a window or thelike. That is, the booth need not be a space that is completely sealed,provided that the booth is a space that is designed (for example,equipped with a doorway that can be opened and closed and can be locked)to separate a booth inner space from an outside of the inner spacepartitioned by the booth so that a third party other than a user presentin the inner space and other person(s) permitted to be present in thebooth inner space at the same time cannot enter the booth inner space.The “third party” refers to a person other than the user and a personpermitted to be present in the booth (a person who is not the user northe person permitted to be present in the booth). A specific examplewill be described later with reference to FIG. 3.

The closed space is equipped with a door that allows the user to enterand leave the closed space, and the door is desirably lockable. Atransparent plate such as glass (or a semi-transparent plate such asfrosted glass) may be embedded in a wall and a door that constitute theclosed space. The kind of door is not limited in particular and can be,for example, a hinged door, a sliding door, an overhung door, or afolding door. Alternatively, the door may be an automatic door. That is,opening and closing of the door may be controlled by moving a positionof the door by using a driving unit such as a motor.

The closed space may be used by a user who has made a reservation or maybe used anytime when the closed space is opened.

The motion detection module 105 is connected to the image presentingmodule 115. The motion detection module 105 detects a user's motion. Asdescribed above, the motion detection module 105 detects a motion of auser's body such as a head or a user's gaze.

The image storage module 110 is connected to the image presenting module115. The image storage module 110 stores therein an image that can bepresented to a user's field of view. The image storage module 110 storestherein data such as a moving image, a still image, a three-dimensionalimage, and audio data. Specifically, the image storage module 110 storestherein a 360-degree surrounding image at each time. The surroundingimage need not necessarily cover 360 degrees. That is, even in a casewhere the surrounding image covers only a specific angle, the “devicethat changes a presented image in accordance with a direction of anaction of the user” according to the present invention is met. In a casewhere the surrounding image is not switched (displayed) beyond thespecific angle, display may be controlled so that there is no image orthe image is not switched beyond the specific angle.

The image presenting module 115 is connected to the motion detectionmodule 105, the image storage module 110, the schedule management module125, and the control module 140. The image presenting module 115 changesan image presented to a user's field of view in accordance with a user'saction detected by the motion detection module 105.

In VR, an image that covers 360 degrees is displayed for each scene ofapplication software. That is, after X minutes from activation of theapplication software, a 360-degree image is prepared for a scene after Xminutes, and after Y minutes from activation of the applicationsoftware, a 360-degree image is prepared for a scene after Y minutes.Since a human's field of view is basically approximately 180 degrees, aregion that covers this field of view is cut out corresponding to adisplay of a virtual reality display device 200 and the region isdisplayed.

The image presenting module 115 may excite human's five senses, forexample, may output sound or the like or may vibrate in addition topresentation of an image.

The schedule receiving module 120 is connected to the schedulemanagement module 125. The schedule receiving module 120 receivesschedule information concerning a closed space in which the informationprocessing apparatus 100 is used, for example, from a server forschedule management through a communication line. The scheduleinformation may be stored in the information processing apparatus 100.

The schedule management module 125 includes a notification module 130and is connected to the image presenting module 115 and the schedulereceiving module 120. The schedule management module 125 managesschedule of the closed space in which the information processingapparatus 100 is used by using the schedule information received by theschedule receiving module 120. For example, the schedule managementmodule 125 manages from what time to what time the closed space is usedby whom and whether or not the closed space is available. Specifically,the schedule management module 125 may manage schedule by using a boothschedule table 700 that will be described later with reference to theexample of FIG. 7. The schedule information may include a period forwhich the closed space is available, a period for which use of theclosed space is permitted, and a reserved end time.

For example, the schedule management module 125 may cancel a reservationof a closed space upon detection of unlocking of the closed space. Forexample, the schedule management module 125 may give an instruction tocancel a reservation, for example, to the server that manages scheduleof the closed space through the schedule receiving module 120. Whetheror not the closed spaced has been “unlocked” may be detected by thesensor result receiving module 135, and a result of the detection may bereceived by the schedule management module 125. “Unlocking” of theclosed space means that use of the closed space has ended, and thereforea reservation of the closed space is cancelled. In a case where theclosed space is unlocked before a reserved end time, a fee for usage ofthe closed space may be paid back in accordance with a remaining periodto the end time.

Furthermore, a reservation of a closed space may be cancelled on acondition that unlocking of the closed space is detected after the endof use of the information processing apparatus 100. This is to cope witha case where the closed space is mistakenly unlocked even during use ofthe information processing apparatus 100.

The notification module 130 gives a notification to a user in a casewhere a device (the information processing apparatus 100) that coversuser's vision is used in a closed space that accommodates at least oneuser and a managed time based on a period for which the closed space isavailable (examples of which include a reserved period; a reservedperiod is used as an example in the following description) is reached.

The notification module 130 may give a notification by using theinformation processing apparatus 100. For example, the notificationmodule 130 presents the notification to a user's field of view by usingthe information processing apparatus 100. Specifically, the notificationmodule 130 gives the notification by using the image presenting module115. For example, a message such as “MANAGED TIME HAS BEEN REACHED” maybe displayed on a display of the virtual reality display device 200.Alternatively, for example, the notification module 130 may give anaudio notification by using a speaker (examples of which includeheadphones and earphones) or may give a notification using vibration.

The managed time may be a period for which a closed space is available,a period for which use of a closed space is permitted, a reserved endtime, and/or a time that is earlier by a predetermined period than thereserved end time. That is, a user is notified in a case where thereserved end time of the closed space has approached, a case where acurrent time has reached the reserved end time, or a case where acurrent time has passed the reserved end time. This allows the user toknow that the reserved end time of the closed space is approaching evenin a case where the device that covers user's vision is being used (forexample, even in a case where the user is engaged in content provided bythe information processing apparatus 100), thereby allowing the user toprepare for the end. In some cases, a user suddenly visits a closedspace and starts using the closed space (in a period for which theclosed space is available or a period for which use of the closed spaceis permitted) without reservation. Specifically, such an arrangement isalso possible in which a user can use a closed space for a predeterminedperiod (e.g., a reset period for which the closed space can be used bypayment of 100 yen) after a previous user leaves the closed space, as ina case where a user plays a game at a game arcade or the like.

The schedule management module 125 may delete an image displayed for auser of the device that covers user's vision in a case where the managedtime is reached. That is, use of the information processing apparatus100 may be forcibly finished.

The sensor result receiving module 135 is connected to the controlmodule 140. The sensor result receiving module 135 supplies, to thecontrol module 140, a result of detection obtained by a sensor providedinside or outside a closed space (e.g., a sensor that detects lockingand unlocking, a human detection sensor, and a camera). For example, ina case where a human detection sensor provided inside or outside aclosed space detects an action of a person other than a user, the sensorresult receiving module 135 receives a result of the detection andsupplies the result of the detection to the control module 140. A facerecognition technique may be used to determine whether or not a personis a “person other than a user”. A face of a user (a legitimate user)who has reserved a closed space may be registered in advance, and aperson other than this user may be decided as a “person other than theuser”.

As for the expression “provided inside or outside a closed space”, aplace where a sensor is provided may be a door, a wall, a floor, aceiling, or the like that constitutes a closed space or may be a place(e.g., a pillar close to the closed space) that does not constitute theclosed space.

The sensor may be a sensor that detects a state concerning a door of theclosed space. The sensor may be configured to detect at least one of anopened state of the door of the closed space, an unlocked state of thedoor, and touch on an outer side of the door of the closed space.

The sensor may be a sensor that detects the presence of a larger numberof persons than a predetermined number in the closed space. In thiscase, the sensor is a human detection sensor that is provided inside theclosed space and detects the number of persons present in the closedspace. Whether or not the number of persons present in the closed spaceis a predetermined number need just be determined by receiving scheduleinformation (the number of persons who have made a reservation in acurrent time zone) from the schedule management module 125.

The sensor may be a sensor that detects the presence of a person outsidethe closed space. For example, the sensor may detect that a person ispresent outside the closed space on a condition that the person ispresent within a predetermined distance from the closed space for apredetermined period or longer. That is, this person is a person walking(wandering) around the closed space.

The sensor result receiving module 135 may receive disaster informationconcerning a place where a closed space is provided. For example, thesensor result receiving module 135 may communicate with a server thatoffers earthquake early warning service, a server that offers fireinformation of a facility where the closed space is provided, or thelike and thus receive these pieces of information.

The control module 140 has a warning module 145 and is connected to theimage presenting module 115 and the sensor result receiving module 135.The control module 140 performs control so that the device (theinformation processing apparatus 100) that covers user's vision can beused in a closed space that accommodates at least one user on acondition that a door of the closed space is closed or locked. That is,since using the information processing apparatus 100 in a state wherethe closed space is not locked is dangerous (for example, another personenters the closed space and steals belongings of the user), the controlmodule 140 performs control so that such a situation can be avoided.

The warning module 145 gives a warning to a user upon detection of apossibility of occurrence of harm on the user in a case where the device(the information processing apparatus 100) that covers user's vision isbeing used in a closed space that accommodates at least one user. Thisallows the user to know the possibility of occurrence of harm in a realworld.

The “possibility of occurrence of harm on the user” is, for example,occurrence of a disaster (or prediction of occurrence of a disaster) ora possibility of occurrence of harm caused by a person other than theuser. Examples of the disaster includes weather disasters (e.g., rainand wind), natural disasters such as an earthquake, and human-madedisasters such as a fire.

The warning module 145 may issue a warning by using the informationprocessing apparatus 100. For example, the warning module 145 gives anotification to a user's field of view by using the informationprocessing apparatus 100. Specifically, the warning module 145 gives anotification by using the image presenting module 115. For example, amessage such as “SOMEONE IS TRYING TO OPEN DOOR” or “FIRE HAS OCCURRED”may be displayed on the display of the virtual reality display device200. Alternatively, for example, the warning module 145 may give anaudio notification by using a speaker or may give a notification byusing vibration.

The warning module 145 may issue a warning in a case where “an action ofa person other than a user inside or outside a closed space” is detectedby the sensor result receiving module 135.

The warning module 145 may issue a warning in a case where disasterinformation is received by the sensor result receiving module 135.

FIG. 2 is an explanatory view illustrating an example of the virtualreality display device 200 including the present exemplary embodiment(the information processing apparatus 100).

The virtual reality display device 200 is called a head-mounted displayand includes the information processing apparatus 100. The virtualreality display device 200 has, for example, a goggle-shape.Alternatively, the virtual reality display device 200 may have aneyeglass-shape. The image presenting module 115 of the informationprocessing apparatus 100 includes a presenting unit (e.g., a display ora screen) that is configured to cover a vision (a field of view, aneyesight) of a user 290 wearing the virtual reality display device 200.That is, when the user attaches the virtual reality display device 200onto his or her head, the presenting unit of the image presenting module115 is located in front of left and right eyes of the user 290. Thisallows the user 290 to see only an image presented to the field of viewby the image presenting module 115, thereby allowing the user 290 to beengaged in a virtual space. The image presenting module 115 may beconstituted by a presenting unit for left eye that presents an image tothe left eye of the user 290 and a presenting unit for right eye thatpresents an image to the right eye of the user 290.

The motion detection module 105 of the information processing apparatus100 includes at least one of a geomagnetic sensor, an accelerationsensor, a tilt sensor (e.g., an angular velocity sensor, a gyro sensor),and a gaze sensor and is capable of detecting various kinds of motionsof the virtual reality display device 200 attached onto the head of theuser 290 (i.e., various kinds of motions of the head of the user 290) ora gaze.

The virtual reality display device 200 may be equipped with a controlleroperated by the user 290, a microphone that receives voice of the user290, a speaker (examples of which include headphones and earphones) thatoutput sound, a motion sensor that detects a motion of a body (examplesof which include a hand, a finger, and a leg), and the like.

For example, a reference position of the user 290 is determined afteractivation of the virtual reality display device 200. By estimating adisplacement (a change of an angle such as a gyro angle) from thereference position, which region of a 360-degree image at a currentscene is displayed is determined.

A preview screen for preview of an image to be output may be displayedupon issuance of an output instruction, various setting screens forsettings of a size and the like may be displayed as in a case of aprinting instruction from a personal computer, and the image may beoutput after an instruction is received on the setting screens.

VR content may be, for example, a game, a trip, real-estate preview, alessen at a school, or a remote conference.

In a case where a user enjoys a VR image by using a device, such as thevirtual reality display device 200, that covers vision, information onan outside real space is restricted.

This undesirably allows a malicious person to easily harm the user 290and steal something in a public space (a space that is not a closedspace where only the user 290 is present). That is, the user 290 isvulnerable, and it is hard for the user 290 to notice a change ofsurroundings. There is a possibility of occurrence of a crime committedagainst a vulnerable user engaged in a VR image (content such as agame). For example, there is a possibility of stealing of valuables suchas a wallet from a bag, secret photographing, body groping, and thelike.

In view of this, it is assumed that the virtual reality display device200 is used in a booth 300 illustrated in FIG. 3.

FIG. 3 is an explanatory view illustrating an example of the booth 300(an example of a closed space) where the present exemplary embodimentcan be used.

The booth 300 has a door 310 and a human detection sensor 330. The door310 has a door knob 320 and is equipped with a sensor that detectsopening and closing of the door 310, whether or not the door 310 islocked (or whether or not the door 310 is opened), and whether or notthe door knob 320 is being touched (especially whether or not the doorknob 320 is being touched from an outside). The human detection sensor330 is a motion detector and is, for example, an infrared sensor, asurveillance camera, or a pyroelectric infrared sensor.

The booth 300 aims, for example, for activation of telework and mobilework and provides a work environment and a private room of high securityin order to cope with a wide variety of work styles. Furthermore, thebooth 300 also functions as a communication booth.

For example, the booth 300 not only can be placed in a train station, anairport lounge, an office, a shop such as a restaurant or a departmentstore, and a bank, but also can be placed outdoor, for example, at apark and on a road. The booth 300 is desirably soundproof.

Inside the booth 300, a desk (or a table or the like) and a chair, apersonal computer that enables a web conference, the virtual realitydisplay device 200, and the like are placed. This allows a user to workin a quiet environment of high security by using a telephone, a webconference, a personal computer, and the virtual reality display device200. In addition, a printer, scanner, and the like may be placed insidethe booth 300. The virtual reality display device 200 used by the user290 may be one installed in the booth 300 (i.e., equipment (shareddevice) of the booth 300) or may be one brought into the booth 300 bythe user 290 (i.e., a possession of the user 290). The user 290 may beanyone. For example, the user 290 is a business person on a businesstrip or a person who wants to enjoy content provided by the virtualreality display device 200.

Since the booth 300 offers such an environment, the user 290 can use thevirtual reality display device 200 without concern of other persons.

However, the booth 300 is not always safe and secure. For example, thefollowing cases can be assumed: (1) a case where the user 290 continuesto use the virtual reality display device 200 without noticing that areserved period has ended although the booth 300 is unlocked at the sametime as the end of the reserved period, (2) a case where the user 290uses the virtual reality display device 200, for example, before lockingthe booth 300, (3) a case where a person (a suspicious person) otherthan the user 290 is wandering around the booth 300, and (4) a casewhere a disaster has occurred.

In view of this, according to the present exemplary embodiment,occurrence of such cases is prevented (or even in a case where suchcases occur, the occurrence can be promptly grasped by the user 290).The present exemplary embodiment finally aims for an environmentcomfortable for the user 290 enjoying a VR image by using the booth 300(note that this sentence should not be interpreted that a comfortableenvironment is always realized by the present exemplary embodiment).

FIG. 4 is an explanatory view illustrating an example of a configurationof a system using the present exemplary embodiment.

The information processing apparatus 100 is installed inside the booth300 or is brought into the booth 300 by the user 290. An informationprocessing apparatus 100 a in a booth 300 a, an information processingapparatus 100 b in a booth 300 b, an information processing apparatus100 c in a booth 300 c, and a booth management apparatus 400 areconnected to one another over a communication line 499. Thecommunication line 499 may be a wireless line, a wired line, or acombination thereof and may be, for example, a communicationinfrastructure such as the Internet or an intranet. Functions of thebooth management apparatus 400 may be realized as cloud service.

The booth management apparatus 400 registers therein available booths300 and manages reservation conditions and the like. The boothmanagement apparatus 400 performs reservation management by allocating auser (the user 290) to an available booth 300. Especially in a case ofbusiness use, the booth management apparatus 400, for example, registersand modifies terms of contracts with companies and registers and managesusers for each company. Furthermore, the booth management apparatus 400registers and manages individual users. These operations may beperformed immediately before use of the booth 300. Furthermore, thebooth management apparatus 400 manages logs such as user information,reservation information, and entry and exit information. The boothmanagement apparatus 400 may create a bill on the basis of these piecesof information and may create and send a bill using a format designatedfor each company.

FIG. 5 is a conceptual module configuration diagram illustrating anexample of a configuration of the image presenting module 115.

The image presenting module 115 includes a presenting detecting module510 a, a presenting detecting module 510 b, and an image generatingmodule 530. The presenting detecting module 510 a and the presentingdetecting module 510 b, a presenting module 515 a and a presentingmodule 515 b, and an eyeball detection module 520 a and an eyeballdetection module 520 b, which are for a left eye and a right eye,respectively, have a similar configuration and are therefore givenreference signs 510, 515, and 520, respectively.

The image storage module 110 is connected to the image generating module530 of the image presenting module 115. The image generating module 530is connected to the image storage module 110, the schedule managementmodule 125, the control module 140, and the presenting detecting modules510. The presenting detecting modules 510 includes the presentingmodules 515 and the eyeball detection modules 520 and are connected tothe image generating module 530.

The image generating module 530 generates image signals to be suppliedto the left and right presenting modules 515 (the presenting module 515a and the presenting module 515 b) on the basis of image data acquiredfrom the image storage module 110. Next, the presenting modules 515 emitimage light based on the image signals to display surfaces, and thusimages are presented to eyes 590 of the user 290.

The eyeball detection modules 520 detect gazes of the eyes 590 of theuser 290. The eyeball detection modules 520 bear part of processingperformed by the motion detection module 105.

The schedule management module 125 is connected to the image generatingmodule 530 of the image presenting module 115. The schedule managementmodule 125 presents, for example, information indicating that a managedtime is reached on the basis of a reserved period of the booth 300 byusing the image presenting module 115.

The control module 140 is connected to the image generating module 530of the image presenting module 115. The control module 140 presents, forexample, information indicating that “someone is trying to open the door310” or “a fire has occurred” by using the image presenting module 115.

FIG. 6 is a flowchart illustrating an example of processing according tothe present exemplary embodiment.

In Step S602, the schedule management module 125 acquires a reservedperiod of the booth 300 from the booth management apparatus 400 throughthe schedule receiving module 120. For example, the schedule managementmodule 125 acquires the booth schedule table 700. FIG. 7 is anexplanatory view illustrating an example of a data structure of thebooth schedule table 700. The booth schedule table 700 has a booth IDcolumn 705, a user ID column 710, a user number column 715, and areserved period column 720. In the booth ID column 705, information(booth ID: IDentification) for uniquely identifying the booth 300 isstored in the present exemplary embodiment. In the user ID column 710,information (user ID) for uniquely identifying the user 290 using thebooth 300 is stored in the present exemplary embodiment. In the usernumber column 715, the number of persons using the booth 300 is stored.In the reserved period column 720, a reserved period (e.g., a reservedstart time (a year, a month, a date, an hour, a minute, a second, asmaller time unit, or a combination thereof) and a reserved end time) ofthe booth 300 is stored.

In Step S604, the schedule management module 125 acquires current dateand time.

In Step S606, the schedule management module 125 determines whether ornot the current date and time is before the reserved end time and aftera time that is earlier by A minutes (a predetermined period, forexample, 5 minutes) than the reserved end time. Step S608 is performedin a case where the current date and time is before the reserved endtime and after the time that is earlier by A minutes than the reservedend time. Step S610 is performed in other cases.

In Step S608, the notification module 130 notifies the user 290 that thereserved end time of the booth 300 is approaching, and Step S604 isperformed again. For example, a screen 900 a illustrated in FIG. 9A ispresented on the display of the virtual reality display device 200. Forexample, a message “THIS BOOTH WILL REACH RESERVED END TIME AFTER FIVEMINUTES.” is presented on the screen 900 a.

In Step S610, the schedule management module 125 determines whether ornot the current date and time is the reserved end time or later. In acase where the current date and time is the reserved end time or later,Step S612 is performed. Step S604 is performed again in other cases.

In Step S612, the notification module 130 c. For example, a screen 900 billustrated in FIG. 9B is presented on the display of the virtualreality display device 200. For example, a message “RESERVED END TIME OFTHIS BOOTH HAS COME. PLEASE LEAVE IMMEDIATELY.” is presented on thescreen 900 b.

In Step S614, the control module 140 forcibly stops use of theinformation processing apparatus 100 (the virtual reality display device200).

A booth schedule table 800 may be used instead of the booth scheduletable 700. FIG. 8 is an explanatory view illustrating an example of adata structure of the booth schedule table 800. The booth schedule table800 has a booth ID column 805, a user ID column 810, a user numbercolumn 815, a reserved period column 820, and an extendable periodcolumn 825. The booth schedule table 800 is one obtained by adding theextendable period column 825 to the booth schedule table 700. The boothID column 805, the user ID column 810, the user number column 815, andthe reserved period column 820 are similar to the booth ID column 705,the user ID column 710, the user number column 715, and the reservedperiod column 720, respectively. In the extendable period column 825, aperiod extendable after the reserved end time in the booth 300 isstored. That is, the extendable period column 825 indicates a statewhere there is no reservation after the subject reservation.

In a case where the booth schedule table 800 is used, the extendableperiod column 825 of the booth schedule table 800 may be checked afterStep S608 or Step S612. In a case where use of the booth 300 isextendable, information indicating that use of the booth 300 isextendable may be presented, and the user may be allowed to file arequest for extension of use of the booth 300. Specifically, in a casewhere the extendable period column 825 stores a positive period therein(in a case where there is a period to a next reservation in the booth300), information indicating that use of the booth 300 is extendable forthis period may be presented, and the user may be allowed to file arequest for extension. Extension may be allowed on a condition ofpayment of an extension fee. In a case where “0” is stored in theextendable period column 825, information indicating that the booth 300has been already reserved by a next person may be presented, andinformation indicating that a request for extension cannot be filed maybe presented.

In a case where use of the booth 300 is extendable after Step S608, ascreen 1000 a illustrated in FIG. 10A for example is presented on thedisplay of the virtual reality display device 200. For example, amessage “THIS BOOTH WILL BE REACH RESERVED END TIME AFTER FIVE MINUTES.USE OF THIS BOOTH IS EXTENDABLE FOR ANOTHER 30 MINUTES.” is presented,and a “REQUEST FOR EXTENSION” button 1010 a and a “DO NOT EXTEND” button1015 a are presented. In a case where the “REQUEST FOR EXTENSION” button1010 a is selected, a screen for a request for extension is presentedthrough communication with the booth management apparatus 400 so as toarrange for the user to request extension. In a case where the “DO NOTEXTEND” button 1015 a is selected, the screen 900 a may be presentedagain.

In a case where use of the booth 300 is extendable after Step S612, forexample, a screen 1000 b illustrated in FIG. 10B is presented on thedisplay of the virtual reality display device 200. For example, amessage “RESERVED END TIME OF THIS BOOTH HAS COME. USE OF THIS BOOTH ISEXTENDABLE FOR ANOTHER 30 MINUTES.” is presented, and a “REQUEST FOREXTENSION” button 1010 b and a “DO NOT EXTEND” button 1015 b arepresented on the screen 1000 b. In a case where the “REQUEST FOREXTENSION” button 1010 b is selected, processing similar to theprocessing performed in a case where the “REQUEST FOR EXTENSION” button1010 a is selected is performed. In a case where the “DO NOT EXTEND”button 1015 b is selected, the screen 900 b may be presented again.

FIG. 11 is a flowchart illustrating an example of processing accordingto the present exemplary embodiment.

In Step S1102, the control module 140 determines whether or not the door310 of the booth 300 is closed (or whether or not the door 310 of thebooth 300 is locked). In a case where the door 310 of the booth 300 isclosed, Step S1106 is performed. Step S1104 is performed in other cases.

In Step S1104, the warning module 145 presents information indicatingthat the door 310 will be closed, and Step S1102 is performed again.

In Step S1106, the control module 140 acquires the number of users forwhich the booth 300 is reserved.

In Step S1108, the control module 140 determines whether or not thenumber of persons in the booth 300 is equal to or smaller than thenumber of users for which the booth 300 is reserved. In a case where thenumber of persons in the booth 300 is equal to or smaller than thenumber of users for which the booth 300 is reserved, Step S1112 isperformed. Step S1110 is performed in other cases. In a case where thenumber of persons that can use the booth 300 is a predetermined number(e.g., 1 person), the number of persons in the booth 300 need just becompared with this number.

In Step S1110, the warning module 145 presents information indicatingthat a larger number of persons than the number of users for which thebooth 300 is reserved are present, and Step S1102 is performed again.

In Step S1112, the control module 140 performs control so that use ofthe information processing apparatus 100 (the virtual reality displaydevice 200) is permitted. For example, the virtual reality displaydevice 200 may be turned on, a lid of a box in which the virtual realitydisplay device 200 is stored may be unlocked, the virtual realitydisplay device 200 may be brought into a communicable state (e.g.,communicable, for example, with a content server connected to theInternet), or content may be made downloadable. It is also possible toemploy an arrangement in which opening and closing of a cable entrypoint is controllable, and in a case where the user 290 brings thevirtual reality display device 200 into the booth 300, the cable entrypoint for the virtual reality display device 200 is opened. Informationindicating that the virtual reality display device 200 is usable may bepresented on a display of a booth managing presenting module 1260.

In a case where the virtual reality display device 200 is alreadyinstalled in the booth 300 (in a case where the virtual reality displaydevice 200 is a shared device), a notification prompting the user 290 tobring the virtual reality display device 200 back into a storage place(e.g., into a box) may be given to the user 290 when a managed time isreached. The display of the virtual reality display device 200 may beforcibly cleared. The expression “cleared” encompasses, for example, acase where an image (screen) is blackened, a case where only the displayis cleared although the virtual reality display device 200 is on, a casewhere the virtual reality display device 200 or the display is broughtinto a sleep mode, and a case where the virtual reality display device200 (or the display of the virtual reality display device 200) is turnedoff.

FIG. 12 is an explanatory view illustrating an example of processing (anexample of processing based on the flowchart of FIG. 11) according tothe present exemplary embodiment. FIG. 12 illustrates an example inwhich the information processing apparatus 100 that is a VR apparatus ismade unusable in a case where a larger number of persons than the numberof persons for which the booth 300 is reserved are detected, a casewhere the door 310 is not locked, or in a case where the door 310 isopened.

In the booth 300, a user 1210 and a person 1220 are present. Theinformation processing apparatus 100, a human detection sensor 1230, andthe booth managing presenting module 1260 are provided in the booth 300,the door 310 is provided with a door opening closing sensor 1240, andthe door knob 320 is provided with a lock sensor 1250.

The determining process in Step S1102 need just be performed by using aresult of detection using the door opening closing sensor 1240 or thelock sensor 1250.

The human detection sensor 1230 detects the number of users in the booth300.

The booth managing presenting module 1260, for example, manages thebooth 300 and presents a message. That is, since the informationprocessing apparatus 100 (the virtual reality display device 200) is inan unusable state at this moment, the booth managing presenting module1260 (the booth managing presenting module 1260 has functions of theschedule management module 125, the control module 140, the imagepresenting module 115, and the like) gives a notification, a warning,and the like to a user. The booth managing presenting module 1260determines whether or not the number of persons in the booth 300 isequal to or smaller than the number of persons for which the booth 300is reserved and controls the information processing apparatus 100 (thevirtual reality display device 200) to become unusable or issues awarning. For example, in a case where the booth 300 is reserved for asingle user, the booth managing presenting module 1260 warns that thereis a possibility that the person other than the user 1210 is present inthe booth 300 in the example of FIG. 12.

In order to use the functions of the present exemplary embodiment, thefunctions of the present exemplary embodiment may be made executable oran inquiry as to whether or not the functions of the present exemplaryembodiment are used may be presented on a user's terminal by usinginformation obtained by near field wireless connection in a case of anelectronic lock (for example, in a case where the door is unlockedthrough authentication using NFC, BLE, a beacon, or the like by using aterminal such as a smartphone) when the user enters the booth 300.

Specifically, a device (e.g., the booth managing presenting module 1260)in the booth 300 may communicate with a terminal of a user outside thebooth 300, and in a case where the user is a user who has made areservation, the electronic lock of the booth 300 may be unlocked.Furthermore, information for seeking confirmation about use of the booth300 may be transmitted to the user's terminal and displayed on theuser's terminal, and in a case where use of the booth 300 is confirmed,the electronic lock of the booth 300 may be unlocked.

FIG. 13 is a flowchart illustrating an example of processing accordingto the present exemplary embodiment.

In Step S1302, the state of the door 310 of the booth 300 is determined.In a case where the door 310 of the booth 300 is opened, a case wherethe door 310 of the booth 300 is not locked, or in a case where an outerside of the door 310 of the booth 300 is being touched, Step S1310 isperformed. Step S1304 is performed in other cases.

FIG. 14 is an explanatory view illustrating an example of a case wherethe present exemplary embodiment is not used. A user 1410 wears ahead-mounted display 1420 while leaving baggage 1430 on a floor. Theuser 1410 is enjoying a VR image by using the head-mounted display 1420.In this state, vision of the user 1410 is covered with the head-mounteddisplay 1420, and therefore the user 1410 cannot grasp an outsidesituation. Therefore, another person 1450 close to the user 1410 caneasily steal the baggage 1430 (or is given an opportunity to steal thebaggage 1430).

This is the same as a state where the door 310 is opened or is notlocked even in a case where the user 1410 is present in the booth 300.

In Step S1304, it is determined whether or not the number of persons inthe booth 300 is larger than the number of users for which the booth 300is reserved. In a case where the number of persons in the booth 300 islarger than the number of users for which the booth 300 is reserved,Step S1310 is performed. Step S1306 is performed in other cases. Aprocess similar to the process in Step S1108 of the flowchart of FIG. 11is performed.

In Step S1306, it is determined whether or not there is a person outsidethe booth 300. In a case where there is a person outside the booth 300,Step S1310 is performed. Step S1308 is performed in other cases. Asdescribed above, it may be determined that there is a person outside thebooth 300 on a condition that the person is present within apredetermined distance from the booth 300 for a predetermined period orlonger.

In Step S1308, it is determined whether or not disaster information hasbeen acquired. In a case where disaster information has been acquired,Step S1310 is performed. Step S1302 is performed in other cases.

In Step S1310, a warning indicating that disaster information has beenacquired is issued by using the information processing apparatus 100(the virtual reality display device 200).

For example, in a case where it is determined Step S1302 that “the door310 of the booth 300 is opened”, a screen 1700 a illustrated in FIG.17A1 is presented on the display of the virtual reality display device200. For example, a message “PLEASE CLOSE DOOR OF THIS BOOTH.” ispresented on the screen 1700 a. Alternatively, a screen 1700 aillustrated in FIG. 17A2 is presented on the display of the virtualreality display device 200. For example, a message “DOOR OF THIS BOOTHWAS OPENED. PLEASE CHECK DOOR.” is presented on the screen 1700 a.

For example, in a case where it is determined in Step S1302 that “thedoor 310 of the booth 300 is not locked”, a screen 1700 b illustrated inFIG. 17B is presented on the display of the virtual reality displaydevice 200. For example, a message “PLEASE CHECK LOCK OF THIS BOOTH.” ispresented on the screen 1700 b.

For example, in a case where it is determined Step S1302 that “the outerside of the door 310 of the booth 300 is being touched”, a screen 1700 billustrated in FIG. 17C is presented on the display of the virtualreality display device 200. For example, a message “SOMEONE IS TRYING TOOPEN DOOR OF THIS BOOTH.” is presented on the screen 1700 c.

For example, in a case where it is determined in Step S1304 that “thenumber of persons in the booth 300 is larger than the number of usersfor which the booth 300 is reserved”, a screen 1700 d illustrated inFIG. 17D is presented on a display of the virtual reality display device200. For example, a message “LARGER NUMBER OF PERSONS THAN NUMBER OFPERSONS FOR WHICH THIS BOOTH IS RESERVED ARE PRESENT IN THIS BOOTH.” ispresented on the screen 1700 d, and a booth inner side image region 1750d is presented. In the booth inside image region 1750 d, an image(examples of which include a moving image) taken by a camera 1640 ispresented. This allows the user using the virtual reality display device200 to check the inside of the booth 300 without removing the virtualreality display device 200.

For example, in a case where it is determined in Step S1306 that “thereis a person outside the booth 300”, a screen 1700 e illustrated in FIG.17E is presented on the display of the virtual reality display device200. For example, a message “SOMEONE IS WANDERING AROUND THIS BOOTH.” ispresented on the screen 1700 e, and a booth outside image region 1750 eis presented. In the booth outside image region 1750 e, an image(examples of which include a moving image) taken by a camera 1540 ispresented. This allows the user using the virtual reality display device200 to check the person outside the booth 300 without removing thevirtual reality display device 200 (without looking at an outside of thebooth 300).

For example, in a case where it is determined in Step S1308 that“disaster information indicating occurrence of a fire has beenreceived”, a screen 1700 f illustrated in FIG. 17F is presented on thedisplay of the virtual reality display device 200. For example, amessage “FIRE HAS OCCURRED. PLEASE EVACUATE.” is presented on the screen1700 f.

For example, in a case where it is determined in Step S1308 that“disaster information indicating occurrence of an earthquake has beenreceived”, a screen 1700 f illustrated in FIG. 17F2 is presented on thedisplay of the virtual reality display device 200. For example, amessage “EARTHQUAKE HAS OCCURRED IN **. PLEASE PREPARE FOR BIG SHAKING.”is displayed on the screen 1700 f.

FIG. 15 is an explanatory view illustrating an example of processingaccording to the present exemplary embodiment.

A user 1500 is present in the booth 300, and the user 1500 is wearingthe virtual reality display device 200.

A human detection sensor 1230 is provided in the booth 300, a humandetection sensor 1530 and a camera 1540 are provided outside the booth300, a door opening closing sensor 1240 is provided on the door 310, anda lock sensor 1250 is provided on the door knob 320.

The determining process in Step S1302 need just be performed by using aresult of detection using the door opening closing sensor 1240, the locksensor 1250, the human detection sensor 1530, and the camera 1540.

The determining process in Step S1306 need just be performed by using aresult of detection using the human detection sensor 1530 and the camera1540.

FIG. 16 is an explanatory view illustrating an example of processingaccording to the present exemplary embodiment.

A user 1600 and another person 1650 are present in the booth 300, andthe user 1600 is wearing the virtual reality display device 200.

In the booth 300, a human detection sensor 1230 and a camera 1640 areprovided.

The determining process in Step S1304 need just be performed by using aresult of detection using the human detection sensor 1230 and the camera1640.

A hardware configuration of a computer that executes a program accordingto the present exemplary embodiment is a general computer as illustratedin FIG. 18 and is specifically a computer incorporated into the virtualreality display device 200, a personal computer, a computer that canserve as a server, or the like. In a specific example, a CPU 1801 isused as a processing unit (a computing unit), and a RAM 1802, a ROM1803, and a HD 1804 are used as storage devices. For example, a harddisk or a solid state drive (SSD) may be used as the HD 1804. Thecomputer is constituted by the CPU 1801 that executes programs such asthe motion detection module 105, the image presenting module 115, theschedule receiving module 120, the schedule management module 125, thenotification module 130, the sensor result receiving module 135, thecontrol module 140, and the warning module 145, the RAM 1802 in whichthe programs and data are stored, the ROM 1803 in which a program foractivating the computer and the like are stored, the HD 1804 that is anauxiliary storage device (e.g., a flash memory) having a function of theimage storage module 110, a receiving device 1806 that receives data onthe basis of a user's operation (examples of which include an action,voice, a gaze, and the like) on a keyboard, a mouse, a touch screen, amicrophone, and a camera (examples of which include a gaze detectioncamera), an image output device 1805 such as a CRT, a liquid crystaldisplay, or a speaker, a communication line interface 1807 forconnection with a communication network such as a network interfacecard, and a bus 1808 for connecting these members so that data can beexchanged. Plural computers configured as above may be connected over anetwork.

As for a computer program according to the exemplary embodiment, theexemplary embodiment is realized by cooperation of software and ahardware resource by loading the computer program that is software intoa system having the above hardware configuration.

The hardware configuration illustrated in FIG. 18 is merely an example,and the present exemplary embodiment is not limited to the configurationillustrated in FIG. 18, provided that the modules described in thepresent exemplary embodiment are executable. For example, one or more ofthe modules may be realized by dedicated hardware (e.g., an applicationspecific integrated circuit (ASIC)), one or more of the modules may beprovided in an outside system and connected through a communicationline, or plural systems illustrated in FIG. 18 may be connected througha communication line and operate in cooperation with one another. Thecomputer may be incorporated into not only the virtual reality displaydevice 200, but also a mobile information communication apparatus(examples of which include a mobile phone, a smartphone, a mobiledevice, and a wearable computer) or the like.

The program described above may be stored in a recording medium or maybe offered through means of communication. In this case, the programdescribed above may be grasped as an invention of a “computer-readablerecording medium storing a program”.

The “computer-readable recording medium storing a program” refers to acomputer-readable recording medium storing a program that is used forinstallation, execution, distribution, and the like of the program.

Examples of the recording medium include digital versatile discs (DVDs)such as “DVD-R, DVD-RW, and DVD-RAM” that are standards set in a DVDforum and “DVD+R and DVD+RW” that are standards set in DVD+RW, compactdiscs (CDs) such as a read-only memory (CD-ROM), a CD recordable (CD-R),and a CD rewritable (CD-RW), a Blu-ray (registered trademark) disc, amagnetooptic disc (MO), a flexible disc (FD), a magnetic tape, a harddisk, a read-only memory (ROM), an electrically erasable programmableread-only memory (EEPROM (registered trademark)), a flash memory, arandom access memory (RAM), and a secure digital (SD) memory card.

The whole or part of the program may be, for example, stored ordistributed by being recorded on the recording medium. The program maybe transferred by using a transfer medium such as a wired network or awireless communication network used for a local area network (LAN), ametropolitan area network (MAN), a wide area network (WAN), theInternet, an intranet, an extranet, or the like, or a combinationthereof or may be carried on a carrier wave.

Furthermore, the program described above may be part or all of anotherprogram or may be recorded on a recording medium together with adifferent program. Alternatively, the program described above may berecorded in plural recording media in a distributed manner.Alternatively, the program described above may be recorded in any form(e.g., in a compressed form or an encrypted form) as long as the programcan be restored.

The foregoing description of the exemplary embodiment of the presentinvention has been provided for the purposes of illustration anddescription. It is not intended to be exhaustive or to limit theinvention to the precise forms disclosed. Obviously, many modificationsand variations will be apparent to practitioners skilled in the art. Theembodiment was chosen and described in order to best explain theprinciples of the invention and its practical applications, therebyenabling others skilled in the art to understand the invention forvarious embodiments and with the various modifications as are suited tothe particular use contemplated. It is intended that the scope of theinvention be defined by the following claims and their equivalents.

What is claimed is:
 1. An information processing apparatus comprising: aprocessor, configured to: give a notification to a user in a case wherea device that covers the user's vision is used in a closed space thataccommodates at least one user and a managed time based on a period forwhich the closed space is available is reached; and cancel reservationof the closed space upon detection of unlocking of the closed space atany time before a reserved end time of the closed space and compute areturn fee for usage of the closed space in accordance with a remainingperiod to the reserved end time.
 2. The information processing apparatusaccording to claim 1, wherein the processor gives the notification byusing the device.
 3. The information processing apparatus according toclaim 2, wherein the processor presents the notification to a user'sfield of view by using the device.
 4. The information processingapparatus according to claim 1, wherein the managed time is the periodfor which the closed space is available, a period for which use of theclosed space is permitted, the reserved end time, or a time that isearlier by a predetermined period than the reserved end time.
 5. Theinformation processing apparatus according to claim 1, wherein in a casewhere the managed time is reached, an image displayed for the user ofthe device that covers the user's vision is hidden.
 6. A non-transitorycomputer readable medium storing a program causing a computer to: give anotification to a user in a case where a device that covers the user'svision is used in a closed space that accommodates at least one user anda managed time based on a period for which the closed space is availableis reached; and cancel reservation of the closed space upon detection ofunlocking of the closed space at any time before a reserved end time ofthe closed space and compute a return fee for usage of the closed spacein accordance with a remaining period to the reserved end time.
 7. Aninformation processing apparatus comprising: a processor, configured to:cancel reservation of a closed space upon detection of unlocking of theclosed space after an end of use of a device that covers a user's visionat any time before a reserved end time of the closed space and compute areturn fee for usage of the closed space in accordance with a remainingperiod to the reserved end time.